Running injuries
RUNNING injuries occur whether individuals are under-exercised or to athletes who are in the level of running excellence. Injuries occur unexpectedly; even so that a revolutionary concept was developed by sports-oriented podiatrist in relation to leg or feet injuries.
The biomechanically weak feet/foot held the key to the majority of foot, leg, and knee injuries in runners for the simple reason that the force of impact of the foot exerted upon each foot strike of a runner is approximately three times his weight. I f with a weak feet then the force exerted upon the foot strike may cause an abnormal strain on the supporting tendons and muscles of the foot and leg that may result in muscular or skeletal damage.
Abnormal strain may also cause a twisting of the foot on the ankle, on the legs or knee, which may result to stress fractures or “runner’s knee” where arch supports are advisable. Having poor flexibility is vulnerable for biomechanical problems, because tight or shortened
muscles can be easily injured. Stretching before and after running is essential for the “Achilles” tendon, calf and hamstring muscles, the back and hips, to gain and retain flexibility.
Running makes the back and leg muscles over developed and tight, thus strengthening exercise for the opposite muscle groups are essential, these includes the abdominal muscles to ease back pain, shin area muscles for shin splints, and the quadriceps or thigh area to avoid knee pain.
Relaxation exercises before and after workouts helps alleviate problems caused by stress and tension that causes back pain and injuries especially when tense muscles are forced into action. Likewise, overtraining and putting too many things into your life in addition to training can make you susceptible in musculoskeletal injuries as well as illnesses.
Most likely, symptoms of overtraining like fatigue, chills, frequent colds, insomnia, and diarrhea should be avoided. That is to listen to your body and ease back in your running or training schedules, decreased speed in running, time and distance. Run slow and easy and always consult your doctor if these symptoms should continue.